O2 Concentrator Setup

• While oxygen concentrators vary by model and manufacturer, some basic general rules apply to setup.
  
  Always plug the concentrator directly into an outlet. Do not use an extension cord because it will be a tripping and fire hazard. Avoid plugging the concentrator into an outlet with other appliances, since circuit overload and blown fuses may result. Longer oxygen tubing, rather than a longer cord, should be used to increase reach.
  
  After you attach the nipple adaptor or water bottle to the concentrator outlet tube, attach your oxygen tubing. Then fill the humidification bottle with distilled water. Minerals from tap or well water may clog the concentrator. Distilled water is available at most grocery stores. Screw the humidification bottle onto the concentrator.
  
  Once you turn the concentrator on, the alarm should stop after five to 20 seconds. If it doesn't, check that tubing and humidification are correctly attached and the concentrator is firmly plugged into a wall outlet.
  
  Always set oxygen flow to the rate or within the range prescribed by your doctor. For example, set the dial or line the ball up at 2 to deliver 2 liters of oxygen per minute (LPM). According to Dr. B. Ronan O'Driscoll, receiving too much oxygen can be as dangerous as receiving too little.
  
  A quick way to check that oxygen is flowing through the tubing is to drop the nasal cannula into a glass of water. Watch for bubbles. If there are no bubbles, ensure the tubing is not kinked or pinched and is securely attached to the concentrator. Also ensure that the tubing adaptor or humidification bottle is screwed straight and tightly onto the concentrator.
  
  Wear the nasal cannula with the prongs facing up and curved into your nostrils. Place the tubing under your chin and behind your ears, and adjust the tubing clasp so it is comfortable. Over-tightening will cause tubing to irritate skin and pull when you move.
  
  

Clean Equipment to Prevent Infection

• To clean the concentrator, wipe it with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not use wax or polish because these can be flammable. Wash the filter in warm water weekly, pat it dry with a towel and allow it to air dry completely before replacing.
  
  Reduce your risk of infection by cleaning your cannula with a damp cloth at least daily and replace it every other week. Replace the tubing every 60 to 90 days.
  
  Clean the humidification bottle weekly. To do this, turn the concentrator off. Unscrew the humidification bottle and rinse with warm water and dish soap. Mix one part vinegar to four parts water in the humidification bottle and soak for 20 minutes. Rinse for three minutes under warm tap water. Shake the humidification bottle dry, refill with distilled water and screw it back onto the concentrator. Then turn the concentrator on and place cannula back in your nose.
  
  

Comfort

• Wrap cotton, cloth tape or thin sponges (sometimes called "ear pillows") around oxygen tubing at the points where it rests on skin to prevent rubbing. If you experience dry sinuses or bloody noses, ask your doctor or equipment provider for humidification.
  
  

Common Problems

• Your equipment provider will help you maintain your concentrator and may also help you with travel arrangements. These problem-solving tips work for most concentrator models:
  
  Power failure alarms can often be easily resolved. Make sure the concentrator is turned on and fully plugged into the wall. Ensure your wall switch is flipped on so that the outlet is working. Switch outlets. Reset the concentrator by pressing "reset."
  
  If electricity is out in the entire house, use a backup tank until power is restored. Be sure you have enough backup tanks to last for 24 hours so that additional tank delivery can be arranged or you have time to move to a place with electricity in the event of long-term power outage.
  
  Laying tubing on cold floors can cause condensation. Overfilling the humidification bottle may cause water backup in the tubing. According to concentrator manufacturers Wright and Filippis, if moisture blocks your tubing, you can switch tubing or try the following:
  1. Turn the concentrator off and use your backup oxygen tank.
  2. Place cannula in a container to collect water
  3. Attach the tubing directly to the concentrator using nipple adaptor
  4. Turn concentrator on maximum for five to 10 minutes to evaporate or expel water
  5. Turn the concentrator off.
  6. Replace the humidification bottle and reattach the tubing to the concentrator.
  7. Turn the concentrator back on and return flow to prescribed setting
  8. Put your nasal cannula back on.
  
  

Safety

• Concentrator suppliers Sparrow and Wright & Filippis suggest several safety guidelines when using your oxygen concentrator. Oxygen is flammable. Never smoke or use a hairdryer, oil-based cream or electric razor while using oxygen. Explosions or burns may result. To prevent fires, use a microwave rather than the stove, or have someone else cook. Never place the concentrator in enclosed spaces like closets, or near heaters, walls or objects that will burn, such as draperies or newspaper. Do not put liquids on top of the concentrator because spills may cause malfunction.
  
  To keep oxygen tubing from tripping you or dropping into food, attach it to clothes by catching the tubing inside a large safety pin. Turn off your concentrator and remove your nasal cannula when not in use. This prevents tripping and skin breakdown.